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What Contributes to Greatness

Posted in Bible Study, Encouragement, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Provision, God-Given Abilities, tagged God's Gentleness, Psalm 18:35 on June 29, 2015| 8 Comments »

“You have given me the shield of your salvation,

and your right hand supported me,

and your __________ made me great.”

–Psalm 18:35 (EST)

What word would you put in that blank?

Power?
Grace?
Mercy?

The word chosen most often by translators* may surprise you. It certainly surprised me.

“Your GENTLENESS made me great.”

In addition to being surprised, I was puzzled. How can God’s attribute of gentleness make a person great?

A good place to begin our search for understanding is the background of this psalm. It was written by King David, perhaps during his later years. He may have been pondering the incredible progression of his life from lowly shepherd boy to exalted king.

Surely young David never even daydreamed of becoming the most powerful man in Israel, as he sat on the hillsides of Bethlehem watching over his father’s sheep.

Neither could he have known at least fifteen years would pass between his anointing as king (a ceremony indicating a setting apart) and his actual coronation.

And contrary to human logic, those intervening years would not be spent as a student in preparation, but as a fugitive and outlaw, running for his life. Seems like such a waste of time, doesn’t it? As David hid from King Saul in the Cave of Adullam, did he wonder, Lord God, what ARE you doing?

In hindsight we can see that God was gently teaching and preparing David his way, with practical, hands-on lessons such as:

The Lord hears the prayers of the afflicted and encourages them (Psalm 10:17).
The Lord’s unfailing love can be trusted (Psalm 13:5).
The Lord gives wise counsel (Psalm 16:7).
The Lord is like a rock. His people can take refuge in him (Psalm 18:2).
There is no need to fear evil, because the Lord is always present with his own (Psalm 23:4).

One definition of gentle is “considerate or kindly.” God certainly demonstrated gentleness of this nature by endowing David with certain character traits–traits that would serve him well as monarch over Israel:

Courage—most obvious, perhaps, when teenaged David took on nine-foot-plus Goliath (1 Samuel 17)
Perseverance—when he spent those years waiting for God’s plan to be fulfilled, all the while fleeing from Saul’s vengeful rage (1 Samuel 19-2 Samuel 1)
Cleverness—on display when David pretended madness in order to avoid death at the hands of the Philistines (21:10-15)
Restraint—when he twice resisted the opportunity to kill Saul before the king killed him (chapters 24 and 26)
Respectability—During his years as a fugitive, six hundred men gathered in support of David and fought with him (27:3-4).

Another definition of gentle is “tender hearted.” No doubt it was with a tender heart that God:

Bestowed upon David the gifts of poetry and music (1 Samuel 16:18)
Demonstrated his wonderful love (Psalm 31:21)
Forgave David (32:1-2)
Remained faithful to him (57:3)
Protected David in the shadow of his wings (61:4)

But here’s even better news about God’s gentleness: It wasn’t reserved just for David or other Bible heroes. God displays his gentle nature to all of his children, every day.

In hindsight, we, too, can often see God’s gentle teaching and preparation for what he has called us to do. (If you’re in the middle of that process, rest assured those tough life-lessons you’re enduring now will not be for nothing!)

Second, with kind and gentle consideration, God has bestowed upon each of us specific character traits that qualify us to accomplish his plans. (And that plan isn’t complete until we hear the angels sing!)

Third, God has surely demonstrated his gentle, tender-hearted love for us, beginning with the death of his Son on a cross and ending with…

…well, there is no end to his faithfulness, grace, mercy, attentive care, peace, joy, and more. How glorious is that?

And though it’s very doubtful you or I will ever be great monarchs like David, we can aspire to greatness in God’s eternal kingdom.

How? By serving him wherever we are with the specific gifts and traits he has given us.

Jesus spoke that truth very clearly:

(“The greatest among you will be your servant.” –Matthew 23:11)

* * * * * * * * * *

I praise you, God, for your gentleness that tenderly prepares us for our purpose, kindly endows us with attributes for that calling, and graciously showers us with the benefits of your character, all throughout life.

Help me, I pray, to be compliant under your tender hand, ready and willing to follow your gentle lead, and generous to bestow upon others the graces of your character which I have enjoyed. Amen.

(Photo and art credits: www.panoramio.com; http://www.pinterest.com; http://www.donnarios.com; http://www.plusii.blogspot.co.uk; http://www.pinterest.com.)

* www.biblehub.com provides easy access to twenty translations of the Bible. Fifteen out of twenty include the word “gentleness” at the end of Psalm 18:35, or a synonym: humility, lowliness, or meekness.

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O God

Posted in Blessings, Faith, God, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Provision, Meditation, Worship, tagged Almighty God, God Is above All, God of Creation, God of Restoration, God of Salvation, God' Blessings, God's Glory, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Majesty, God's Splendor, God's Word, the Bible on June 18, 2015| 8 Comments »

O God of Creation, who

Drapes morning mist across the hillsides,

Paints the dawn with ever-changing hues, and

Scatters sparkling crystals of dew on grass and flower,

I worship you with incredulous wonder.

O God of Salvation, who

Gave your precious Son, the King of kings,

To die a cruel, criminal’s death for my sin, and

Provide the way of eternal life,

I worship you with overflowing gratitude.

O God of Restoration, who

Now considers me righteous,

Making possible an intimate relationship with you, and

Granting perfect peace and effervescent joy,

I worship you with a humbled spirit.

O God of Affection, who

Mercifully withholds the punishment I deserve,

Graciously bestows blessings I have not earned, and

Carries me close to your heart,

I worship you with overwhelming love.

O God of Revelation, who

Gave us your timeless, trustworthy Word, that

Offers infallible wisdom, inspired instruction, and

Encouraging promises to lead us and lift us,

I want to worship you with my obedience.

O God of Transformation, who

Actively pursues my best interest,

To mold me into the image of Jesus

With ever-increasing splendor,

I want to worship you with my submission.

O God of Distinction,

There is no one like you.

Your greatness is beyond human comprehension.

I stand in awe of your splendor and majesty, and

I worship you with all that is within me.

(Revelation 17:14; Philippians 2:8; Romans 5:17; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Revelation 3:20; Romans 14:17; Micah 7:18; John 1:16; Isaiah 40:11; Psalm 119:160, 130, 50; Romans 8:26-29; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Psalm 145:1-5.)

Photo and art credits: www.macgardens.org; http://www.renewaldynamics.com; http://www.crossmap.com; http://www.waysoflife.info; http://www.stokethefire.org; http://www.pinterest.com; http://www.stream.org.

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God’s Pleasure in Progress

Posted in Encouragement, God's Delight, God's Grace, Godly Character, Holiness, Maturity, Perseverance, Success, Uncategorized, tagged God celebrates progress, God's Compassion, God's Grace, Isaiah 30:18, Matthew 5:48, Philippians 3:12-14, Psalm 103:1-2, Psalm 147:11, Psalm 37:23, When practice makes perfect, Zephaniah 3:17 on June 15, 2015| 11 Comments »

My first teaching job was in a small community southwest of Lexington, Kentucky. Although the school included first through sixth grades, there were only five teachers. Second grade was divided, some students included in first, the rest with third. I was assigned the first/second split.

The first morning of school went by quickly as we read stories, played a few learning games, and completed a class chart of favorite summer activities. Soon it was time to march to the cafeteria for lunch.

The children lined up to receive their plates of food, and then were instructed to pick up napkins, utensils, cartons of milk, and straws – all without benefit of trays. Little hands struggled to hold so many items–much less carry them all without accident. (And why were the first and second graders seated farthest from the serving line? I never had the nerve to ask.)

So began my habit of standing at the end of the counter, wrapping utensils and a straw in a napkin, then perching a milk carton on an empty corner of the plate as the students passed by.

One second grader, Ricky, was much too manly to use a straw. Each day he would proclaim, “I don’t need no straw.”

Each day I would patiently correct him: “I don’t need a straw.” Ricky would repeat it again after me. It almost became a joke between us, as the exchange occurred day after day, month after month.

One noontime in March, while focused on wrapping the next set of flatware, I heard Ricky’s voice proudly proclaim, “I DON’T NEED A STRAW!”

My eyes popped, Ricky’s twinkled, and his broad smile indicated his pleasure in remembering–all by himself–how to correctly form his request.

A quick hug, a few pats on the back, and an “I-am-so-PROUD-of-you!” let him know how I felt.

It never occurred to me to say, “Well, it’s about time, Bud! You DO realize we’ve repeated this little ceremony over one hundred times, don’t you?”

No. This was a moment to celebrate! Our perseverance had paid off. And perhaps this one little grammatical victory would prompt Ricky to conquer the next. I was thrilled.

Do you suppose that’s how God feels when our “practice makes perfect?”

When:

Our quiet time with him finally becomes a near-daily habit?
We remember to express gratitude and praise to him throughout the day?
We’re able to think before we speak more consistently?
We forgo some purchase for pleasure in order to supply someone else with necessities?
We put aside our agenda to do a favor for someone else?

Yes, I believe God is thrilled with our steps of progress, just as I was with Ricky’s effort. If God withheld his pleasure until we reached perfection, we’d never experience even one good thing (Psalm 84:11). He’d always be in discipline-mode.

But Isaiah tells us: “The Lord longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion” (30:18).

David reminds us that out of his grace and compassion he guides our steps and takes delight when we follow his way (Psalm 37:23).

Another psalmist proclaimed that the Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love (147:11). No mention of delight reserved only for those who are perfect.

Ah, but what about Jesus’ statement in Matthew 5:48: “Be perfect as your Heavenly Father is perfect?”

Yes, that is the standard, but God does not disapprove of us because we have not achieved that goal. He knows perfection this side of heaven is impossible. What he does approve of is effort—to press on like Paul to “receive the heavenly prize for which God through Christ Jesus, is calling us” (Philippians 3:12-14).

When we stumble, we keep going. When we fall, we get up and try again.

But listen closely. You’ll hear God celebrating our progress (Zephaniah 3:17).

* * * * * * * * * *

We praise you, Heavenly Father, for being a gracious, compassionate God,

who is slow to become angry and always abounding in loving-kindness.

Even as we strive to be more like you,

we can rest in the knowledge that you will not condemn us

when we stumble and fall.

Thank you for your readiness to forgive and your everlasting love.

Thank you for continually drawing us closer to you and your perfection.

(Psalm 103:1-2, Romans 8:1; 1 John 1:9; Jeremiah 31:3).

Photo credits: www.pinterest.com; http://www.grist.org; http://www.neabscobaptist.org; http://www.untilsheflies.com.)

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Nothing Wasted

Posted in Encouragement, God, God's Goodness, God's Grace, tagged 1 Corinthians 15:58, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Encouragement, God can use everything in our lives, God's Creative Genius, God's economy, God's Ways, Nothing is wasted in God's economy, Romans 8:28, Upcycling on June 1, 2015| 12 Comments »

Take a close look at the intricate design above. Did you notice the artist’s medium? Corks!

And look at what some clever soul did with some old tires.

And how about this stemware rack? Quite the creative use for a discarded garden rake.

All three of these projects are examples of upcycling—the process of converting useless products and waste materials into new products of higher quality or value than the original.

On a much grander scale, consider: those of us who know Jesus have also been upcycled.

“Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person.

The old life is gone; a new life has begun!”

– 2 Corinthians 5:17

And what does that new, upcycled life include?

The opportunity for intimacy with Almighty God
A fresh perspective on life
Strength to face whatever might happen
A glorious certainty for the future
A deep sense of peace and joy that circumstances cannot destroy

And that’s just the beginning of the list.

Just as resourceful people are able to upcycle any number of materials, God can use everything in our lives:

Every relationship
Every situation
Every trial
Every hurt
Even every failure

No matter what we go through, God can upcycle the experience to create something worthwhile. Good things like: 1) important life-lessons, 2) steps in his carefully orchestrated plan for our lives, and 3) a positive influence upon others.

Nothing is wasted in God’s economy.

–Bill Wilson

(founder of Alcoholics Anonymous)

Paul expressed the same truth in scripture:

“God is able to orchestrate everything

to work toward something good and beautiful

when we love him and accept his invitation

to live according to his plan.”

–Romans 8:28, The Voice, italics added)

The inconsequential bits of our lives are never wasted in God’s economy either. For example: He uses every good deed, every exercise of self-discipline, every effort to keep peace, to mold us into better people and to minister to others.

And then there is the trash of our lives—those circumstances and relationships we wish never had happened. Even the trash is upcycled:

Wailing becomes dancing (Psalm 30:11)

Tears become joy (Psalm 126:5),

Ashes become beauty,

Despair becomes praise (Isaiah 61:3),

The crooked roads become straight (Luke 3:5),

Darkness becomes light (1 Peter 2:9).

Someone very clever expressed it this way:

Does that mean we sit and wait while God turns our tears of disillusionment to joy? The ashes of disappointment into something beautiful? The crooked road of bad choices into a straight, smooth path?

No, God honors us by allowing us to participate in the upcycling process.

“Always work enthusiastically for the Lord,

for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.”

— 1 Corinthians 15:58, NLT

Let’s strive to choose the next “best thing” before us, and let God upcycle the results!

(Photo credits: www.winecorkdesigns.com; http://www.newscentral.exsees.com; http://www.pinterest.com; http://www.mediawebapps.com.)

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New Mercies Each Morning

Posted in Blessings, Courage, Encouragement, Faith, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Provision, God's Strength, God's Wisdom, Hope, Perseverance, Suffering, Wisdom, Worry, tagged Corrie ten Boom, Enthusiasm for the Day, God's Faithfulness, God's Mercy, God's Provision, God's Provisions During Trouble, God's Strength, Hope for the Future, Lamentations 3:22-23, Matthew 6:34, One Day at a Time, Seize the Day, Supernatural Strength, Worry on May 28, 2015| 12 Comments »

“Oh, what a beautiful tree!” my mother-in-law exclaimed with enthusiasm. Her comment referred to a tall bush, planted near the house and visible outside our kitchen window. “What’s the name of it?” she asked. Being from Ohio, Mom wasn’t familiar with some of the unique foliage of our area in south Florida.

“That’s a sea grape,” I told her. “It’s actually a shrub, but they can grow quite tall.”

“Well, it’s lovely. Such big leaves!”

Now clearly there’s nothing remarkable about this conversation, until you know that Mom had asked the very same question with the very same enthusiasm every morning of her visit. And each morning I supplied the same answer. Mom was in her late 80s, and her dementia was becoming more and more noticeable.

Mom’s fresh outlook each morning reminded me of Lamentations 3:22-23:

The faithful love of the LORD never ends!

His mercies never cease.

Great is his faithfulness;

his mercies begin afresh each morning (NLT).

Just as Mom brought new enthusiasm to each morning, so God brings new mercies for each day. Yes, the challenges we faced yesterday required wisdom, strength, and perseverance. But today we’ll need a fresh supply. Praise God he never runs out of such gifts; he is always able to provide.

In the same way, God’s new mercies for today are not meant to be sufficient for tomorrow. In other words, we shouldn’t expect to feel confident and in charge this morning for the potential challenges of the future—much as we’d like to. (Who hasn’t wished to know now exactly how the next day or week will unfold, and how best to respond?)

Instead, our wise and loving Heavenly Father has chosen to lead us one day at a time. And just what is so wise and loving about keeping us in the dark? So as to protect us from being overwhelmed, easy prey to depression, and paralyzed by fear.

No, our best course of action is to avail ourselves of God’s mercies for this one day. As for tomorrow, we can trust God to supply new mercies, more than sufficient for whatever we might face when the time comes (Matthew 6:34).

I’m remembering Corrie ten Boom. (Maybe this post brought her to your mind, too.)

Corrie and her family suffered cruel hardships in the concentration camps of Nazi Germany, as a result of helping Jews escape the Holocaust.

After the war, people would often say to Corrie, “I wish I had such great faith as yours. I could never live through the experiences you survived.”

Corrie would tell a story to explain.

When she was a child, Corrie happened to see a dead baby. A terrible fear gripped her that one of her family might also die. When Papa ten Boom came to tuck her in that night, she burst into tears.

“I need you!” she sobbed. “You can’t die!”

Her sister, Betsy, explained why Corrie was so afraid.

Papa asked, “When you and I go to Amsterdam, when do I give you your ticket?”

“Just before we get on the train,” she responded.

“Exactly,” Papa replied. “And God knows when you’re going to need things, too. Don’t run out ahead of him, Corrie. When the time comes that some of us have to die, you will look into your heart and find the strength you need—just in time.”

Papa ten Boom was proven right. When Corrie needed supernatural strength, God did provide. We can rest assured that his mercies will be new and fresh each morning for each of us, as needed.

* * * * * * * * * *

I praise you, Lord God, that we can face each day with fresh enthusiasm, because for each trial, you have prepared for us great mercies like endurance, strength, and wisdom. I thank you that in the midst of trouble, you also provide blessings: a more acute awareness of your presence, peace that defies explanation, family and friends to come alongside, miraculous provision, and delightful surprises to make us smile. You are not just a sufficient God; you are an abundantly gracious God!

(Photo credits: www.mgonline.com; http://www.coffee4thesoul.com; http://www.myhero.com.)

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The Spacious, Free Life

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Salvation, Hope, Jesus, Salvation, Uncategorized, tagged Christian Freedom, Freedom, freedom from not freedom to, Freedom in Christ, John 8:36, Psalm 37:39-40 on March 12, 2015| 10 Comments »

The spacious, free life is from God,

It’s also protected and safe.

God-strengthened, we’re delivered from evil—

When we run to him, he saves us.

(Psalm 37:39-40, The Message)

There are folks who think that Christians surrender their freedom when they choose to follow Jesus. They think we give up our freedom to do as we please and take part in everything life has to offer.

Those folks miss an important fact: Self-centeredness does not satisfy in the long-term.

Even secular research has proven that truth. Several years ago, the Journal of Research in Personality published a study conducted by psychologists. They recorded their therapy sessions and found that individuals who used more of the first-person singular pronouns (I, me, my) were more likely to suffer from depression.

The truth of the matter is, real freedom is not freedom to, but freedom from. God offers us a number of glorious freedoms. For example:

Freedom from guilt. God forgives my sins and remembers them no more (Isaiah 43:25). How loving, merciful and gracious He is!

Freedom from fear. He is my stronghold in time of trouble (Psalm 37:39.) How often have I called out, “Oh, Jesus,” with my heart pounding in my chest—at the moment a car crash was imminent, a child approached with blood oozing from his head, or the phone rang just before curfew, and our teenager wasn’t home yet.

But fears can be quieted as we affirm who is in control. God is Lord of every circumstance. He is also the Source of solace, perspective, strength and wisdom–whatever I need, for every situation.

Freedom from worry. God has promised to supply my needs (Philippians 4:19).

When worries begin to whirl in my head, I try to put into practice what Kay Arthur teaches: “Focus on God. Rehearse his character, his promises, his works. Remember his names, his attributes and how they suit your situation” (His Imprint, My Expression, p. 117). Extolling God’s greatness causes my problems to shrink.

Notice I said try. I’ve not always accepted God’s offer of freedom from worry. Sometimes dark clouds of concern fill my thoughts and blot out his goodness—his character, promises, and works. Sometimes it takes awhile for me to remember: My God is all-sufficient. He will see me through.

As I grow older, the gap is shortening between worry-onset and God-focused thinking. Practice hasn’t made perfect yet, but at least it’s producing improvement.

Freedom from foolish decisions. He provides wisdom when I ask (James 1:5).

“I need not despair because the living God is my partner. I do not have sufficient wisdom to meet these difficulties, but He is able to direct me. I can pour out my heart to God and ask Him to guide and direct me and to supply me with wisdom. Then I have to believe that He will do so. I can go with good courage to my business and expect help from Him in the next difficulty that may come before me” – George Mueller

Freedom from discouragement, because God is omnipotent. With him all things are possible (Matthew 19:26). He specializes in redeeming disappointment. And while we wait, our loving Father provides strength.

The shroud of discouragement can also be lifted through gratitude, praise, and worship. Focusing on who our God is and what he has already provided can relieve the ache for what has not come to pass—yet.

This post is getting long, so I’ll just list another five briefly:

Freedom from despair. He is my God of hope, joy, and peace as I trust in him, so I can overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit (Romans 15:13.)

Freedom from loneliness, because He is always with me (Psalm 23:4).

Freedom from prolonged sadness. Weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning (Psalm 30:5).

Freedom from feeling helpless. In God’s hands are strength and power (1 Chronicles 29:12).

Freedom from feeling useless, as we live each moment for the praise of His glory (Ephesians 1:11-12).

Jesus said, “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36). What he offers is the spacious, free life–to those who follow him, to those who become the children of God.

* * * * * * * * * *

My heart is overwhelmed, Father, as I skim down this list of miseries for which you provide relief. No doubt there are even more freedoms that could be included. I pray that when these negative emotions threaten to overtake my spirit, you would tap me on the shoulder and remind me: the more I turn my thoughts and feelings over to you, the more spacious my soul will become to enjoy the freedom of your peace. Praise you, gracious God, for such glorious provision.

(Photo credits: www.moreofimministries.org; http://www.wallpaper4god.com; http://www.treasuring-christ.org; http://www.887thebridge.com.)

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Pure and Perfect Spring Water

Posted in Bible Study, Encouragement, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Power, God's Presence, God's Protection, God's Provision, God's Strength, Joy, Uncategorized, tagged God Our Fountain of Life, God's Attributes, Hebrews 1:3, John 4:14, Living Water, Psalm 36:9 on March 9, 2015| 8 Comments »

His kayak paddle provided more steering than propulsion, as the tourist enjoyed a quiet excursion past tall conifers and wide-armed hardwoods. Slowly he meandered southward, confident that returning to his launching point would not be a challenge. The man at the kayak-rental shack had assured him: surface water flowed at just over one mile per hour. And should he fall out of his craft, no real danger would threaten. The water was only three feet deep, and the shore not more than ten feet to either side.

It’s hard to imagine, the kayaker thought, that this narrow, shallow stream actually becomes a mammoth river. He’d been told the stream was fed by underground springs, and flowed another 2,300 miles from where he paddled. Along the way, more rivers would flow into it. And when the fresh water finally met salt, the river would be over a mile wide.

Have you guessed the name of this waterway? It’s the grand and powerful Mississippi. Yet its headwaters is a tame little stream, fed by a few underground springs or fountains.

Such a river offers an illuminating picture of our relationship with God. We are the rivers, and…

…“[God] is the fountain of life,” (Psalm 36:9).

Anglican bishop John James Stewart Perowne (1823-1904) said: “These are some of the most wonderful words in the Old Testament. Their fullness of meaning no commentary can ever exhaust.”

But if we don’t at least try to grasp the wealth of truth in these six words, we stand to lose much profit.

So let’s consider that, as our fountain of life:

God the Son is the source of all life, and all life is sustained by him (Hebrews 1:3). Without him, all life would cease.

In him we live, and move, and have our being (Acts 17:28).

He is like a spring of water welling up to eternal life in our spirits (John 4:14).

Those are wonderful concepts, which Dr. Perowne surely had in mind as he contemplated Psalm 36:9. Yet our triune God is like a fountain of spring water in more ways.

First, a bit of digression. No doubt you’re aware that bottled spring water is a big business these days, supposedly offering water that is much superior to what comes out of the tap. Critics have their doubts.

But our God is 100% perfect! No doubt about it.

“He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he” (Deuteronomy 32:4).

Consider as well the following scriptures, which itemize his excellent perfections. And keep in mind they come to us in unending supply:

Presence. “I am with you always” (Matt. 28:20).

Reliability. “The plans of the Lord stand firm forever; the purposes of his heart through all generations” (Psalm 33:11).

Right-Doing. “His righteousness endures forever” (Psalm 111:3).

Faithfulness. “The faithfulness of the Lord endures forever” (Psalm 117:2).

Sovereignty. “He rules forever by his power, is eyes watch the nations” (Psalm 6:7).

Love. “His love endures forever” (Psalm 100:5).

Compassion. “[The Lord’s] compassions never fail” (Lam. 3:22).

Protection. “Save your people and bless your inheritance; be their shepherd and carry them forever” (Psalm 28:9).

Stability. “The Lord is the Rock eternal” (Isaiah 26:4).

Joy. “With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation” (Isaiah 12:3).

Blessing. “Surely you have granted him eternal blessings and made him glad with the joy of your presence” (Psalm 21:6).

Grace. “God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work” (2 Cor. 9:8).

That’s an even dozen attributes. But since our God is infinite, his attributes are also infinite. We’ve barely begun to explore his perfections. In addition, he will forever expend those attributes for our good (Romans 8:28)—not only outwardly, as he engineers circumstances, but inwardly as we allow his attributes to flow in us.

In addition, God is flowing through us, so we can provide life-giving grace to those around us—grace that expresses itself in love, compassion, and blessing.

And that brings me to another metaphor–for those tributaries that pour into the Mississippi. They remind us of the influence of others in our lives–faithful and mature family members, friends, pastors, and teachers, who come alongside us by example and with wisdom, providing strength and growth.

Chances are, those tributaries of the Mississippi are also fed by springs. For every believer, our triune God is the pure, ever-flowing, life-giving source of all that is excellent, and everything we need for a fulfilling life.

Is your heart overflowing with praise?

* * * * * * * * * *

We do give you praise, oh God! You are the fountain of our abundant and excellent spiritual life. You are the only spring that quenches our thirst for fulfillment, joy, peace, and satisfaction. Thank you for flowing in us, so these desires and more are fully met. And thank you for flowing through us, so we might have the privilege of sharing your living water with others.

(Information about the headwaters of the Mississippi from the Mississippi Headwater Board and wikipedia.org. Photo & art credits: www.nature.org; http://www.1mississippi.org; http://www.fbcphil.org; http://www.agodman.com; http://www.wikipedia.org.)

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The Gift of Memory

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Provision, Hope, Joy, Maturity, Meditation, Renewing the Mind, Suffering, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized, Wisdom, tagged Appreciation, Blessing, Contentment, Encouragement, Faith, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Provision, Godly Character, Gratitude, Hope, Joy, Leave the past in God's hands, Meditation, Philippians 3:13, Philippians 4:8, Psalm 103, Psalm 103:2-10, Purpose of Memory, Renewing the Mind, Self-Pity, Suffering, Wisdom on March 2, 2015| 25 Comments »

(Photo from http://www.trulia.com.)

“There it is, Mom, “ Steve remarked, as he pointed to a little white house in the middle of a city block. “That’s where we lived when I was growing up.”

“Oh, yes,” she replied. But did Mom really remember?

We were on an excursion through Columbus, Ohio, taking Steve’s mother past the landmarks of her life. Alzheimer’s disease had already stolen away much of her vibrancy and warmth, and, of course, her memory.

Steve drove by West High School and continued his commentary. “That’s where we all went to school, you, Dad, Karen, and me. You were the very first homecoming queen. How about that? No wonder Dad asked you out.”

She murmured assent to Steve’s comments, but added nothing of her own.

We drove past the brick ranch they built out in the country in 1966. Horses used to reside beyond the back fence. Just a few houses had dotted the area back then. By this time, however, they had been swallowed up by dozens more. The saplings Mom and Dad had planted were now tall shade trees. And the glorious flower beds and window boxes that Mom had tended were gone. She registered no recollection.

But when we approached her childhood home, a white Dutch Colonial on a quiet street, all of a sudden she perked up. Pointing to a second-story window, Mom stated firmly, “That was my room, right up there.”

In the midst of the fog that is Alzheimer’s, one memory–one glimmer of light–shone through that morning. Steve and I almost gasped at the wonder of the moment. Mom remembered!

And the rarity of her memories pointed to the preciousness of this ability. Memory is a gift to be treasured. The older I grow, the more I appreciate the miraculous power of the brain to store millions of memories—with astounding detail–and yet access a particular one in a mille-second.

Not only do sights trigger memories, but also smells. Researchers say this sense is the most powerful memory-inducer. For me, the aroma of fresh-baked bread always takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen.

Sounds trigger memories as well—particularly music. Tastes and textures work the same phenomenon.

But surely God had more purpose in mind for giving us memory than the pleasant pastime of reminiscing.

Indeed.

Memories foster gratitude, as we contemplate God’s goodness to us in the past:

His countless blessings (even when we haven’t been a blessing to him).
Those times he led us through the shadow of death, so that we might experience more completely the glory of his light.
Moments when we almost gave up hope, and God surprised us with his creative, abundant provision.
Leaving behind what we once were and celebrating what we have become, solely because of his Son, Jesus.

Memories foster faith, as we remember how God has met our needs in the past. See if each phrase from Psalm 103 doesn’t trigger a memory in your mind, and a song of praise in your heart:

“Oh, my soul, bless God,

Don’t forget a single blessing!

He forgives your sins—every one.

He heals your diseases—every one.

He redeems you from hell—saves your life!

He crowns you with love and mercy—a paradise crown.

He wraps you in goodness—beauty eternal…

…God makes everything come out right.

He puts victims back on their feet…

…God is sheer mercy and grace;

Not easily angered, he’s rich in love.

He doesn’t treat us as our sins deserve,

Nor pay us back in full for our wrongs.

(Psalm 103:2-10, The Message)

Memories inform the present and provide hope for the future. As we meditate on all those times God has wrapped us in his goodness (v. 5), we are strengthened for what we face today. As we consider the many times he made everything come out right (v. 6), we can trust he will continue to make our paths straight.

Of course, there are some memories we would like to erase—those that generate sadness, hurt, or regret. How do we deal with those? Here are a few suggestions I’ve collected over the years:

We must resist self-pity—even in our thought life. Nowhere in scripture do we read that rehashing the negative is therapeutic. God’s way is to focus on the positive (Philippians 4:8).

We can follow Paul’s example. He forgot what was in his past and pressed on to what lay ahead (Philippians 3:13). Not that amnesia had set in. Paul simply did not allow past failures to cripple his relationship with God and his service for God. God had forgiven and forgotten; Paul did too. No doubt he applied Philippians 4:8, not only to self-pity, but also to guilt.

We can leave the past in God’s hands. Oswald Chambers said it so well:

(“Leave the irreparable Past in His hands, and step out into the Irresistible Future with Him”

–My Utmost for His Highest, Dec. 31.)

* * * * * * * * * *

Father, I do thank you for the gift of memories—the ability to remember with joy and appreciation the people, places, and experiences of the past. I even thank you for the not-so-good memories, knowing that you use every difficult situation for the development of my maturity (James 1:2-3). And may I take advantage of the wisdom gained in the past to guide me in the present, and lead me into the Irresistible Future with you.

Art & Photo credits: www.trulia.com; http://www.westhighalumni.com; Steve’s photo collection; http://www.allrecipes.com; http://www.god.com; http://www.pinterest.com.

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Abundance

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Provision, Thanksgiving, tagged Abundance, Appreciation, Blessings, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Provision, Gratitude, Thanksgiving on November 27, 2014| 17 Comments »

Abundance: a word that easily comes to mind as we contemplate Thanksgiving Day.

Many dining room tables will be filled to overflowing with delectable offerings this afternoon. Most Americans will consume a plentiful amount of turkey, salads, vegetables, and pies. Food in abundance has become synonymous with Thanksgiving.

Very soon Steve and I will head over to our son’s house to celebrate Thanksgiving with family–for the first time in about ten years. We and our three children, their spouses, and children have lived states apart for that long, and we’ve had to wait until Christmas each year for get-togethers. (Sadly, not all of us will be able to gather today, but most.) In June, Steve and I moved close to our older son and his family, not far from our younger son and his wife.

Friends will also be joining us this afternoon, making for a full, heart-warming day. Even more than the abundant feasting, I look forward to the abundant togetherness—the camaraderie, affection, story-telling, reminiscing, and humor.

But abundance also describes the plentiful amount of blessings bestowed by another family member, our Heavenly Father.

His abundance includes:

Grace.

“Those who receive the abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ” (Rom. 5:17, Ryrie).

We were ruined by sin. But out of his loving forgiveness and acceptance, God offers the gift of eternal life through his Son, Jesus.

Mercy.

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with his ample mercy has given us new birth into a life of hope, due to the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (1 Peter 1:3, Berkely Version).

When God gives us what we do not deserve, that’s grace. When God does not give us what we do deserve, that’s mercy. He is abundantly generous with both.

Peace and security.

“I will heal my people and will let them enjoy abundant peace and security” (Jeremiah 33:6).

We can rest in calm assurance of God’s loving care and his provision of salvation.

Love and faithfulness.

“The Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness(Exodus 34:6).

God expresses his love in countless ways. He is faithful, never forgetting a promise. And he never fails to provide for our needs.

Goodness.

“They will celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness” (Psalm 145:7).

All of God’s glorious attributes are generously poured out upon us day by day.

Holy Spirit.

“He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously” (Titus 3:5-6).

Empowerment, renewal, guidance, and comfort are just a few of the benefits our precious Holy Spirit provides.

Life

“I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly” (John 10:10, KJV).

Not mere existence, but a rich, full, satisfying life, in relationship forever with The. King. Of. The. Universe. Incredible.

* * * * * * * * * *

How is it possible, Lord, you would even want to open the storehouses of heaven to pour out this abundance upon us? How do we begin to thank you for such rich, abounding blessings? Words are pathetically inadequate. All we can offer you is our lives—to live for the praise of your abundant glory. Help me to do so—today and always.

(Photo credit: www.happyfathersday.com.)

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The Glorious Promises of Isaiah 58:11 — Part Two

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Presence, God's Promises, God's Provision, God's Strength, Intimacy with God, Joy, Maturity, Meditation, Praise, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized, tagged Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Presence, God's Promises, God's Provision, God's Strength, Gratitude, Isaiah 58:11, James 1:17, Joy, Nehemiah 8:10, Praise, Spiritual Strength on November 17, 2014| 8 Comments »

Last Thursday we pondered these promises from Isaiah 58:11:

“The Lord will guide you always,” and

“He will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land.”

Today, more discoveries and encouragement await as we meditate upon the last two promises:

“[He] will strengthen your frame.”

“You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.”

Do you long for strength within your frame, that is, inner strength? Perhaps you’re moving as fast as you can, but never quite reaching the end of the to-do list. And you’re bone-weary from the effort.

Perhaps the stresses of life—difficult relationships, a high-pressure job, financial obligations—are squeezing in hard.

Perhaps boredom or depression surround you in a gray shroud, and you haven’t the energy to fight against them.

“He will strengthen your frame.”

But God doesn’t wave a magic wand over us and suddenly turn weakness into strength. Usually he invites us to be part of the process. And his solutions are radical.

For example, celebrate anything and everything (Philippians 4:4).

Take joy in:

Your cozy robe to ward off the morning chill
That cute tuft of hair sticking up on your toddler’s head
A parking place opening up when and where you need it
Licking the stamp just as the mail carrier pulls up in her truck
An earring lost last week turns up between the counter and stove this week.

You see, joy and strength are closely related. Ezra told the people of Israel, “The joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10).

Those five examples above, and thousands like them, are gifts from your Heavenly Father. “Every good gift and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights” (James 1:17).

In the same way we can build up physical strength with exercise, we can build up spiritual strength with praise—by expressing gratitude and joy for every good and perfect gift.

And now, the last promise of this verse describes in metaphor the result of living according to God’s design.

“You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.”

Visualize a flourishing garden, with rich, green plants overflowing with healthy, ripe produce.

Those can be descriptors of you and me. We are:

Rich in God’s grace, which he has lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding (Ephesians 1:8).
Green and flourishing, because we spend time with the Master Gardener and allow him to cultivate our spirits (Psalm 1:2-3).
Healthy and prosperous of soul (v. 3). As we soak up God’s Word, we’ll produce actions and attitudes that honor God and bring us inner satisfaction.
Ripe and mature, lacking in nothing (James 1:3).

God offers us “a continual source of thirst-quenching, drought-ending, fruit-producing, spiritual hydration” (James MacDonald).

Doesn’t that sound refreshing? Who could turn down such provision?

* * * * * * * * * *

Thank you, Father, for the precious assurances of these promises:

You are leading me along the path you preordained before time began.

Every day of this earthly journey I can count on you to supply my needs.

Every day you provide fresh strength. One way is through the exercise of praise.

As I spend time in your presence, I will be transformed–like a garden replenished by hydration. In fact, I can grow into your likeness with ever-increasing glory!

“Such knowledge is too wonderful for me. It is too lofty for me to attain.” Yet I know it to be true because these are truths from your reliable Word. My heart overflows with wonder and gratitude.

(Psalm 139:16; Philippians 4:19; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Psalm 139:6)

(Photo and art credits: www.dayofgrace.me; http://www.anativegarden.blogspot.com; http://www.flickr.com; http://www.naturalearning.org.)

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The Glorious Promises of Isaiah 58:11 — Part Two

Nancy Ruegg

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